Tilley paraffin oil radiator heater

Tilley paraffin oil heater radiator. Height: 42.5 cm/16.75 inch. Width: 30 cm/12 inch. Depth: 23 cm/9 inch. The ‘dish’ has some dents in it (see close up picture). I have not tested whether it still works.

In 1909 a business called Tilley Brothers was set up. Two brothers, Frederick and William, took over their father’s business after he passed away.

In 1919 they started to work with paraffin (kerosene) as a fuel for lamps. In 1920 the company started making the lamp that made its name famous. It became so popular that Tilley became used as a generic name for a kerosene lamp in many parts of the world, just like Hoover is for vacuum cleaners.

An advert from 1923 has confirmed that the Tilley radiator heater was produced since then. After the second world war fears about the poisonous effect of paraffin fumes, and freely available electricity reduced the demand for the Tilley lamps and radiators.

*Please note that all the items in my shop are vintage and pre-loved so they are not in perfect condition. I try to note any imperfections and the quality of the item. Please look carefully at the photos and if unsure ask questions or request more photos before purchase.